Social Solidarity in Islam: A Humanitarian System Beyond Religious and Social Boundaries
By: Ibtehal
In a world facing growing economic and social challenges, the concept of solidarity stands out as one of the pillars of human justice. While modern societies have developed systems of social welfare, Islam introduced—centuries ago—a comprehensive framework for solidarity that is not based on charity alone, but on shared responsibility and moral obligation toward others.
Solidarity in Islam is not simply a voluntary act of kindness. It is a foundational principle for building a just society, ensuring protection, dignity, and care for every individual, regardless of religion, class, or economic status.
Understanding Solidarity in Islamic Thought
In Arabic, the word “takāful” refers to mutual support and responsibility. In Islamic terms, it means that members of a community are collectively responsible for helping one another in times of need—whether financial, emotional, or physical.
Islamic solidarity covers all aspects of life: supporting the poor, aiding the sick, helping those in debt, and even protecting neighbors and migrants. It is not viewed as a favor from the wealthy to the poor, but as a communal duty and a right.
As Dr. Mohamed El-Dessouki explains, solidarity in Islam “is not limited to material support, but extends to emotional care, compassion, and cooperation in doing good.”
Forms of Solidarity in Muslim Communities
Financial solidarity includes giving zakat (obligatory charity), voluntary donations, establishing charitable endowments, and assisting widows, orphans, and those in debt.
Social solidarity involves visiting the sick, comforting the grieving, sharing in celebrations and hardships, and supporting neighbors.
In times of crisis, solidarity takes the form of disaster relief, refugee support, and humanitarian aid during wars or natural catastrophes.
The early Muslim community set powerful examples of solidarity. The Ansar (residents of Medina) famously shared their homes and resources with the Muhajirun (migrants from Mecca), even offering to divide their inheritance with them during a transitional phase of Islamic law.
The Philosophy Behind Islamic Solidarity
Islam views human beings as inherently social. No one can live in isolation, and solidarity is essential for maintaining a cohesive and compassionate society.
Solidarity guarantees that no individual is humiliated due to poverty or weakness. It fosters a sense of safety, belonging, and mutual respect.
Importantly, Islamic solidarity is not limited to Muslims. As affirmed by Egypt’s Dar Al-Ifta, “Islamic solidarity includes all human beings within society, regardless of their faith or beliefs.”
Solidarity in the Face of Modern Challenges
In the fight against poverty and unemployment, solidarity helps reduce inequality and supports access to education and healthcare.
During humanitarian crises, it manifests in emergency aid, shelter for displaced people, and long-term support for vulnerable populations.
On a national level, solidarity strengthens social cohesion, reduces conflict, and builds networks of mutual care and resilience.
How to Activate Solidarity Today
Through institutions: by supporting charitable organizations, civic initiatives, and community-based programs.
Through policy: by integrating solidarity into public welfare systems, encouraging endowments, and institutionalizing zakat.
Through culture and media: by promoting values of empathy, cooperation, and shared responsibility in schools, universities, and public discourse.
Conclusion: Solidarity Is Not a Slogan—It Is a Way of Life
In Islam, solidarity is not just a moral virtue. It is a structured system designed to build a society that is just, inclusive, and humane. In times of growing global crises, solidarity remains the bridge that connects people, restores dignity, and offers hope.
Open-Access References
- Dar Al-Ifta Egypt – Social Solidarity in Islam:
- Darul Uloom – The Concept of Solidarity in Islam:
- IslamWeb – Solidarity as a Pillar of a Cohesive Society: